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Nine-time NBA All-Star Paul George had hoped to remain with the Los Angeles Clippers, the team he had played for over the past five seasons. However, contract negotiations between George and the Clippers took an unexpected turn, leading to his eventual departure from the franchise. George revealed that the Clippers’ initial contract offer was “kinda disrespectful” – a two-year, $60 million deal. As negotiations progressed, the Clippers incrementally increased their offer, but George remained unsatisfied, stating that the offers only reached the $44-45 million per year range.
Seeking Parity with Kawhi Leonard
George’s dissatisfaction came from the fact that he felt he and his teammate, Kawhi Leonard, were viewed equally by the Clippers organization. The two had joined the team together in 2019, and George believed they should be compensated similarly.
When George learned about the three-year, $152.4 million extension that Leonard had agreed to with the Clippers, he requested a comparable deal. George stated, “Just give me what Kawhi got. Y’all view us the same. We came here together…. I’ll take what Kawhi got”.
However, the Clippers were unwilling to match Leonard’s contract terms for George, leading to a stalemate in negotiations.
Desire for a No-Trade Clause
As negotiations continued after the season, George sought a three-year, $150 million contract from the Clippers, with the inclusion of a no-trade clause. This request was also denied by the Clippers, further frustrating George and contributing to his decision to explore other opportunities.
(Ashley Landis / Associated Press)
Exploring Alternatives and Joining the 76ers
Feeling undervalued and unable to reach an agreement with the Clippers, George ultimately opted to sign a four-year, $212 million max contract with the Philadelphia 76ers. The 76ers’ top executives, including Daryl Morey and Julius Erving, made a persuasive pitch and visited George, convincing him that Philadelphia offered the ideal fit for the next phase of his career.
George also revealed that he had considered a potential opt-in and trade to the Golden State Warriors, but logistical hurdles prevented this move from materializing.
Clippers’ Challenges Ahead
George’s departure marks a significant shift for the Clippers, who now face the challenge of moving forward without one of their star players. Meanwhile, the 76ers have gained a versatile player capable of making an immediate impact on both ends of the floor, setting the stage for a competitive showdown with the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference.
As George embarks on a new chapter in Philadelphia, he expressed his initial desire to remain in Los Angeles, stating, “I never wanted to leave L.A.”. However, the Clippers’ perceived disrespect of his contributions and unwillingness to match Kawhi Leonard’s contract terms ultimately led to his decision to seek a new opportunity elsewhere.
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